What to Order at an Afghan Restaurant: A Beginner's Guide (Los Angeles)

If you've never tried Afghan cuisine before, you're in for one of the most rewarding culinary experiences of your life. Known for its rich, savory, and deeply aromatic flavor profile, Afghan food bridges the culinary traditions of the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Indian subcontinent. And the best part? It's incredibly delicious without being overwhelmingly spicy.

For those visiting Bigi Awasaana in Reseda, CA for the first time, ordering can feel intimidating if you aren't familiar with the names of the dishes. This guide breaks down exactly what to order so you can experience the true taste of Kabul, right here in Los Angeles.

1. Start with the Ultimate Appetizer: Bolani

Before you dive into the main courses, you absolutely must try Bolani. This is an Afghan staple—a rustic, thin flatbread that is stuffed with a savory filling, usually a mix of potatoes, leeks, and herbs, and then pan-fried until golden and crispy. It comes piping hot and is served with a side of homemade cilantro-mint chutney or garlic yogurt. It's the perfect shareable appetizer that will instantly hook you.

Pro Tip: Order the Bolani first while you wait for your kabobs. It arrives fast and is the perfect way to start your meal.

2. The Crown Jewel: Kabuli Pulao (Qabili Palau)

You cannot visit an Afghan restaurant without trying the national dish: Kabuli Pulao (also spelled Qabili Palau). This is a masterclass in balancing sweet and savory flavors. The dish features fragrant, long-grain basmati rice cooked in a rich broth, then crowned with tender chunks of slow-cooked lamb or beef, caramelized carrots, and sweet raisins, often garnished with almonds or pistachios.

The meat is usually buried under the mound of rice so it stays incredibly tender and juicy. The contrast between the savory meat and the sweet carrots and raisins is unlike anything else you'll find in Los Angeles.

3. For the Meat Lovers: Coal-Fired Kebabs

Afghan kebabs are legendary, and at Bigi Awasaana, they're cooked the traditional way—over real charcoal. The secret lies in the marinade and the open flame. For beginners, we recommend trying a mix:

Chicken Tikka Kebab: Juicy chunks of chicken thigh marinated in yogurt and spices, grilled to smoky perfection over coal fire.
Chapli Kebab: A uniquely Afghan and Pashtun creation—a flattened, spiced minced beef patty mixed with tomatoes, coriander, and green chilies, pan-fried for a crispy exterior.
Koobideh (Luleh): Flavorful skewers of ground beef mixed with onions and spices, grilled over an open flame until caramelized.
Filet Mignon Kabob: Our premium cut, marinated and grilled to perfection. A Bigi Awasaana customer favorite.

4. The Hidden Gem: Mantu (Afghan Dumplings)

If you love dumplings, you will fall in love with Mantu. These delicate, steamed dumplings are stuffed with spiced ground beef and onions. What makes them truly special is the topping: they are smothered in a garlicky yogurt sauce and a rich tomato-based lentil or meat sauce, finished with a sprinkle of dried mint. It's a flavor explosion in every bite.

Mantu is often called the "Afghan dim sum" by first-time visitors—and once you try it, you'll understand why people keep coming back for more.

5. Don't Skip the Drinks: Doogh

Complete your meal with Doogh, a traditional Afghan yogurt drink seasoned with mint and salt. It's refreshing, slightly tangy, and the perfect palate cleanser between bites of rich, savory kabobs.

Ready to Try Afghan Food in Los Angeles?

Afghan food is all about hospitality, sharing, and incredible flavors. At Bigi Awasaana, we take pride in serving authentic, 100% Zabiha Halal Afghan street food and traditional dishes to the Los Angeles community.

We're located at 18411 Victory Blvd, Reseda, CA 91335 in the San Fernando Valley, and we deliver to Sherman Oaks, Encino, Granada Hills, North Hollywood, and more.

Check out our Full Menu or visit us today in Reseda to start your culinary journey along the Silk Road! Call (323) 921-1646 to order.